Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of joints, tendons, skin, blood vessels and other connective tissue, and organs. Lupus causes the immune system to produce antibodies that attack the body's healthy cells and tissue.

Drug-induced lupus
—This form is
similar to SLE but is usually caused by a drug and is curable by discontinuing the offending drug

Neonatal lupus
—Neonatal lupus is seen in the infants of women with SLE or
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, and the condition usually involves the skin, heart and liver.

The cause of SLE (lupus) is unknown. The manifestations of the disease are due to antibodies that attack the body's own tissues. Why these antibodies appear is unknown. There are certainly genetic factors involved: identical twins share the disease one-quarter to one-half of the time, and it tends to run in families. The disease may be triggered by environmental factors, such as infections or chemicals.

Antibody

The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that approximately 1.4 million Americans have a form of lupus. Ninety percent of people diagnosed with the disease are women; 80% develop it between the ages of 15-45. Lupus is 2-3 times more prevalent among people of color, including African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and Native-Americans.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care
provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a
substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the
advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to
starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a
medical condition.